Summer Interns Featured in Video

The Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG) offers a summer research internship for students interested in exploring careers in cancer epidemiology, biostatistics, and genetics. The program is open to high school, college, post-baccalaureate masters-level students, and graduate students, including medical and dental students. Successful applicants join the Division for at least 8 weeks between May and September. Under the supervision of a Division researcher, summer interns conduct research in selected areas of epidemiologic or genetic investigation. Interns are encouraged to attend lectures offered under the NIH Summer Seminar Series, participate in DCEG meetings and seminars, attend formal NIH lectures and symposia, and participate in the NIH Summer Research Program Poster Day and the DCEG Poster Day.

Why Study Epidemiology?

Epidemiology is often called the science of public health. It is described as the study of the distribution and determinants of disease risk in human populations. Epidemiologists study a diverse range of health conditions as well as the impact that various exposures have on the manifestation of disease. DCEG research has had tremendous impact on public health.

DCEG Research Portfolio

Epidemiology and Biostatistics Research

DCEG researchers work on a variety of population studies and develop novel analytic techniques. Our investigators serve as invaluable mentors to interns on a wide range of research topics. Read more on our Principal Investigators page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply? The Summer Internship Program is for students who are sixteen years of age or older by June 15. Candidates must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, who are enrolled in (or accepted to) high school, college or university as undergraduate, graduate, or professional students.

When does the application process start? The application process begins in mid-November and ends on March 1st.

How long is a summer internship? A typical summer internship lasts 8 to 10 weeks with a minimum requirement of 8 weeks. There is some flexibility depending on the student's schedule.

When does the summer internship start and end? The internship begins in late May or early June and ends in August or September, but exact dates depend on the student's and the mentor's schedules.

Is the summer internship a paid position? Yes. Summer interns receive a stipend based on academic level.

Where is the Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG) located? DCEG is located on the NCI Shady Grove campus at 9609 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, Maryland, 20850. Parking is available at the building. Public transportation, using a combination of Metro and NCI shuttle bus, is also available. The closest Metro stop is “Shady Grove” on the Red Line, from which NCI shuttle buses run regularly to the NCI campus. Find more transportation information.

Where do summer interns live? There are a variety of housing options in the surrounding area, including Rockville and Bethesda, Maryland, and Washington, DC. Find housing information.